Micrurus browni


Micrurus browni, commonly known as Brown's coral snake, is a species of venomous elapid snake native to southwestern Mexico and Guatemala. There are three recognized subspecies, including the nominate subspecies described here.

Etymology

The specific name, browni, is in honor of American herpetologist Bryce Cardigan Brown.

Spanish common names

Common names for M. browni in Spanish include Serpiente-coralillo de Brown, coral, coral de Acapulco, coral de Antigua, coral de canutos, and vibora de coral.

Description

Brown's coral snake can grow to in total length, but it is usually to. It has smooth dorsal scales, a rounded head, and eyes with round pupils. Its color pattern is three-colored: broad red bands, separated by 10-27 black bands, each bordered with a narrow yellow ring. The snout is black. There is usually a yellow ring, across the top of the head, halfway back.

Geographic range

The geographic distribution of M. browni is limited to Quintana Roo in southwestern Mexico, and western Guatemala, including Sacatepequez. Previous reports for Honduras have been found to be incorrect.

Habitat

M. browni is mainly found in tropical deciduous forest, pine-oak forest, and cloud forest at elevations ranging from sea level up to.

Behavior

Although little is known about the behavior of M. browni, like most other coral snakes it may be nocturnal, terrestrial and probably dwells in burrows, leaf litter, or under logs. While usually not aggressive, it will bite when molested or restrained.

Diet

M. browni feeds on small lizards, amphibians, invertebrates, and other snakes.

Reproduction

Like other members of the genus Micrurus, M. browni is oviparous and may lay a maximum of 15 eggs per clutch.

Venom

Little is known about the effects of M. browni venom. It may contain neurotoxin, which can cause neuromuscular dysfunction, as is the case with the venom of other coral snakes.

Subspecies

There are three recognized subspecies of Micrurus browni:
The subspecific name, taylori, is in honor of American herpetologist Edward Harrison Taylor.